Cosima's Diaries

Diary Entry of June 13, 1874

Overview

Lessons and practical tasks share the day with wide-ranging historical and political reflections, especially on empire, language, and the endurance of ideas after power has vanished. The evening brings a satisfying performance of the first act of Siegfried, praised for its beauty and balance.

Content

Saturday, June 13:

Lessons for Lusch; reflections on a striking parallel between the ideals of the Roman and the German Empires: “Just as it was a matter of great pride to regard oneself as a Roman citizen even when there were no longer any real Romans, so, too, the German Empire is a metaphysical concept, for when out of 100 people only 10 remain, what does one know about these ten? And what havoc did not the Walloons, Swedes, Spaniards, etc., wreak on them, ravishing their women, etc.! But the language and the idea have been preserved.”

At lunch reminiscences about our favorite, Frederick the Great, who, as far as sympathetic and captivating people are concerned, comes for us immediately after the Greek heroes. In the evening the first act of Siegfried, very handsomely played by Richter.